Monday, June 13, 2016
Hello, My Faithful Readers
June 13, 2016
26
Months Served – ALMOST Completed Service!
I usually write one blog a month; however, since
this is my FINAL month here in Sagarejo and In-Service as a Peace Corps
Volunteer; I needed to blog twice. The FINAL Peace Corps Adventure blog post will come at the end of the month.
So, here we are my friends at the end of an
adventure that was worth its weight in gold. At the end of this blog I will be 17 days away from being a former Peace Corps Volunteer. That is both a happy
and sad thought; but, I knew it was coming. In fact a lot of the time I prayed
that the end of service would come a lot sooner than it did. But, even with all
my complaining; I would not have traded this experience for anything.
As I begin my life as an “Ex-Pat” in Tbilisi; I
would like to do another blog. I don’t know what I will call it – but I will
let you know how to access it. For now, I write about some closing thoughts of
my service here in the village/town of Sagarejo.
Some
final stories from day-to-day living here in Georgia:
Many houses here in Georgia, both here in the
village as well as the capital city, have ants. I didn’t realize just how many
people had ants; but, probably I was not listening or didn’t understand.
However, the Georgian’s think that ants are a good thing. There is this saying
that goes “Ants bring the Money” – so, having ants in your home is a really
good thing. Well, I don’t agree – but then I guess it is a good way to justify
having ants.
It has been raining A LOT and as a result the MUD
has been horrible. One of the reasons was the result of having the road dug up
to lay the new water pipes. The overturned dirt was so fresh that it resulted
in mud when the new dirt mixed with water. When I walk to school I just sink
into the mud. I try and walk on the side of the road; but, sometimes that is
not possible. Another fear is falling; as the mud is so slippery. Hopefully
this will be behind me when I move to Tbilisi!
A “first” happened the other day going to school. It
was raining and I was walking down the mountain to go to school. I noticed a
car (with a taxi) sign on the roof coming out of one of the driveways. The taxi
stopped and then backed up heading toward me. Well, I sure didn’t want to pay
for a taxi going down the mountain; so, I didn’t think too much of it. However,
the driver (one of the drivers that I use to go up the mountain) waved me in
and said “no money.” I was shocked. That
had never happened to me; so, I got in and away we went down the mountain and to
school. It was a wonderful treat not to have to walk the walk; but also, to be
fairly dry when I reached the school…..Thank you!
A story from a day in the life:
Recently a woman, an old woman, came into the
teacher’s room at school. She was so little and frail I was wondering why she
was there. It became clear after a moment that this woman had issues; in that,
she thought she had arrived to go to school (herself) but was not sure where to
go. One of the teachers spoke to her as she thought she was looking for her
granddaughter; however, it became clear the woman was confused. I didn’t understand all the conversation in
Georgian; but, I knew enough to know that the teachers were concerned about her
mental state.
One of the teachers took the woman to the Office of
the Director; and once the door was closed the remaining teachers started to
laugh. I was confused as I wondered what was so funny. The laughing continued
with talk about this poor old woman who was thinking she was here to go to
school…and I was ashamed at what I was seeing. After two years living here, I
still don’t understand.
School is coming to a close on June 10th.
What a wonderful day that will be knowing that I never have to be in a
classroom again. As the time draws closer; there are fewer and fewer students
that come to school. All the text books have been collected; so, the students
have nothing to work with. However, throughout the year, even though they have
text books, many students don’t bring them to school or open them. As the days
draw to a close; the teachers play word games with the students and/or run a
video. Many classes go on trips and all throughout the day the teachers,
parents and students are taking pictures.
Another story from a day in the life:
A community member had a situation with their teeth.
The front teeth were so rotten that after eating bread two of the teeth broke
off and the root was left in the mouth. The person was so upset. The person was
looking at the broken teeth in hand and crying…trying to figure out what had
happened. I was so sad to see this and thought that a dental appointment would
be scheduled. It has been almost a month and the teeth are still rooted in the
mouth. No dentist was seen…
…..but, what made me even sadder was the behavior of
the person who witnessed this event. As they were watching the person and
giving support and saying how sorry they were; once done and their back was
turned away they started to laugh and giggle. They laughed and mimicked the
person holding the broken teeth in their hands and wiped the invisible tears
from their face – all the time laughing. What can I say – I just have no words.
Dental care is not wide spread here in my village.
Although some children do have braces and have dental work - so many do not have care. Money is always the
issue and it just seems that the dentist is an expense that many people cannot
afford.
I will post a picture, but on June 4th
the G-14’s (of which I am a member) was invited to the home of the United
States Georgian Ambassador and his wife for a BBQ. It was a real treat. There
was lots of GREAT food; a swimming pool; comfortable chairs and BEER. It was a
four hour party; and truly no one wanted to leave. The Ambassador spoke
wonderful words about our service here in-country and of course, pictures were
taken. It was a great way to have the entire group of G-14’s together one more
time before we all leave for various parts of the world.
One more story from a day in the life:
The road to my house was being torn up in order to
lay new sewer pipe in the ground. I had no idea this was going to happen and
came upon this situation as I returned from school recently. As I looked at
this situation the workmen just looked at me and no one made a move to help me
figure out how to get to home. I finally decided I would have to walk along the
edge of the hole they dug for the pipe. It was going to be dangerous; as on one
side was the 4 foot hole for the pipe and on the other was a crater for the
excess water to run off the mountain (about a four foot drop into dirty water).
As I started to walk the long and narrow edge I
almost fell. I took the workman’s hand (who was standing in the hole for the
pipe) and started walking. He was not really happy about this; but, too
bad. I was pushing against weeds and
dirt with every step. As I was very close to home; the workman went back to the
team. At that point, I did fall. I was very lucky that I landed on the piece of
dirt I was walking on and not in the pipe hole or crater. To his credit; the
workman came back to help me up and support me to get home.
As I walked into the house; I saw my host family in
the kitchen. How could they have gotten home?
They asked me if I had walked up the road and when I said yes they
started to laugh. My face told them I didn’t think any of it was funny. It
seems that there is a back way in which no one told me about – but, really they
didn’t leave the house because of the construction. They asked why I walked up
the road – and I said “are you kidding me”. “Why didn’t you tell me”? They just laughed…..
I find so often that Georgians have a strange sense
of humor when it comes to the misfortunes of others. I don’t understand it; as
it almost has an adolescent quality about it. I was very angry with my host
family. But, then I think maybe because life here is so hard; that the only way
to combat misfortune is to laugh at it.
One thing I won’t miss here is the television. In my
new apartment I had the landlord take the television out of the apartment. I
don’t see any value to having it. In any event, my host grandmother turns the
volume up so loud and the reason being is that 1) – she is hard of hearing and
in addition – 2) she wants to hear the soap operas when she is in the kitchen
washing dishes or out in the garden working on the flowers. The television is
blasting.
I come down to the living room and turn it down and
it stays low for a little bit; but then, the volume goes back up again. I do hope
my new neighbors have a low tolerance for noise? This is what I was told by my
landlord; but, we shall see.
The Hard Rock Café is coming to Tbilisi! Opening is slated
for December, 2016! It has been said that a “city” is on the map when it has a
Hard Rock Café – so, I guess that says it all for Tbilisi. We have arrived!!!!
My final day in school was bitter/sweet. There were
very few students in class; so, DVD’s were played while the teachers collected
books and made final notes in their role books. Even though my service ended in
the school on June 10th; the teachers need to go to school every day
until June 30th so that they will be paid for the month. Regardless
of whether there are any classes; the teachers need to be in school.
My last day consisted of lots of hugs and my
counter-part teachers took me to lunch at a restaurant across the street from
the school (which I had no idea it even existed). This restaurant served
Kinkali and surprisingly it was delicious. They were homemade and cooked in
water that didn’t taste like dish water. We had beer and I ate (6) of those
Kinkali. After lunch, more hugs and promises to stay in touch. The school gave
me (2) bottles of Georgian Wine….it was very sweet of them and I know I will
enjoy it.
I know it will take a little time to recover from
the school experience (and that is OK).
I have decided not to participate in the Summer
Program in Turkey (July, 2016). The reason being is that the camp is very close
to the Syrian Border and with the unrest happening in that area; I didn’t want
to put myself in harms way. I am very disappointed about that as I have looked
forward to this all year; but, the hopefully the new year things will be calmer
and then I can go.
The second half of my June blog will consist of
leaving Sagarejo; moving into my apartment and leaving service with the Peace
Corps. There are traditions (ringing the last bell) leaving the Peace Corps
Office and completing all the requirements necessary for COS (Close of
Service). In addition, I have a job
interview here in Tbilisi. It is with an organization that prepares students
for SAT, GRE, etc., type testing. Also career counseling….so we shall see about
this and other ideas I have of creating a life for myself in Georgia!
I told you there was a lot to talk about and that
one blog was not going to cut it J I will see you
all at the end of June!
Best,
Catherine Lawrence, G14
Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia- 6/13/16
The
contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of
the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.
Thursday, May 26, 2016
Hello, My Faithful Readers
May 26, 2016
25
Months Served/01 Month Remaining
Well folks, I am packing. I mean I am really packing
as I will be living in Tbilisi as of June 30th. ! I hope by the time
I post this blog I will be able to give you the skinny on my new
apartment/flat. I’ve been touring apartments and for one reason or another
e.g., too big/too small; too much money;
too far away from the city; I could go on….but I am standing that I will find
the best I can do and move in on June 15th. In this way I will have
a couple of weeks to relocate before I leave service on June 30th,
2016!
Success!
I did it….I have rented an apartment (or Flat)
here in Tbilisi. The e-link does not work so I can’t send photographs – so, I
will gush about it here instead. It is a (1) bedroom flat and seriously, it is
too big for me. I am used to living in small spaces (I have a studio apartment
in USA) and I have not had a bedroom for 18 years. However, with all that said
– it is a lovely apartment.
The location is in the Vere/Vake section of the
city. This is a very residential area and I just love it. It is kind of the
Rittenhouse Square (specific to Philadelphia) area of Tbilisi. There are lots
of shops, outdoor fruit and vegetable stands. It has a neighborhood feel to it,
like SoHo in New York City.
It is on the 2nd floor so I won’t have to
deal with the elevators. Phewwww.. that is a relief as elevators here in
Georgia leave something to be desired. The staircase to the 2nd
floor is in open view (and I like that). Of course, I will have my own bathroom
(OMG); a living room, a sun room; kitchen and bedroom. The flat is in the back
of the building so I’m told it will be very quiet. It does face other apartment
buildings in the back – not a great view but the trees block some of the view.
The windows have screens (which is unheard of here in Georgia). Also, heavy
duty drapes on the windows (another usual feature) as most houses have very
thin curtains on the windows.
I will have a puzzle table and a WASHER….I am so
excited to have both. I am a jigsaw puzzle addict and I’ve been without my
puzzle fix now while here in Georgia. My family let me use their puzzle table;
but when they had an event I had to dis-assemble it – so, I often didn’t even
start it. L
In Georgia when you rent it comes furnished with
everything; dishes, silverware, glasses, pots/pans; sheets; blankets; towels….I
could go on. I won’t need to buy anything (which is exactly what I had in
mind). Another feature is Air Conditioning….can
you believe it? I don’t know if I will use it as it is expensive to use;
but, it will be there in the event that I need it.
I take possession on June 15th. Not sure
how I am going to manage moving my stuff from Sagarejo to Tbilisi; but if there
is only one thing that Peace Corps has taught me is that I will figure it out.
The next time I write; which will be the FINAL blog for my Peace Corps
Adventure (at the end of June) I will have some pictures to post.
Here in Georgia, and especially where I live in
Sagarejo, there are so many birds. The sounds are so beautiful and abundant – I
just love sitting and listening. I always think back, years ago, when the
book “Silent Spring” was written. When I
hear the birds here I am sure that the prediction of a “Silent Spring” is not
going to happen, at least here and at this time. I am glad.
During the 1st grade class recently the
classroom teacher (my counter-part) wrote notes on the blackboard and told the
students to write the information in their notebook. However, one little girl
came up to the board and took pictures of the backboard with her phone. I am
still laughing thinking about that. I do remember in college that students took
pictures of the blackboard notes; but here we are at the 1st grade
level. It is the future.
My Timex Watch strap broke; what a bummer. However,
I actually found a Timex distributor here in Georgia and I actually knew where
the store was. Progress! They didn’t have any watch straps in stock; but, will
order one so that I can once again wear my watch. I would have bet money that I
was going to have to wait until I got back to the States to have it fixed; so,
I am really happy. However, it has not
been a happy ending. The store promised me assistance; but didn’t come through.
It seems that even if they had the new strap they didn’t have anyone to install
it. A friend is going back to the States in June and will see about having it
fixed.
I was recently informed that my school (Sagarejo
School #2) won’t be getting a Peace Corps Volunteer after I leave. I and my
counter-part teachers were disappointed; but I was not surprised. There is so
much need here in Georgia and not as many PCV’s to fill that need. They usually
skip a year, so I am hoping that my school will apply and be assigned another
volunteer for the school year 2017.
I recently went on a trip out west to Batumi, which
is on the Black Sea. This was a trip organized by a group called “EducationUSA”
which helps students, for a fee, get into US College. This was a Career Fair
and I along with many PCV’s represented our US colleges (of course, mine is the
University of Pennsylvania). It was a great event. Yale University was the
major sponsor of this event; as in addition to the Career Fair; Yale conducted
three breakout sessions to speak to the students on what is expected to get
into US College.
It was held at Batumi State University in the very
heart of Batumi. The school is very nice; not modern; but comfortable. I wish I
would have taken pictures; but, sorry I didn’t. It was a long day as we left
Tbilisi at 8am and drove cross country for six hours to reach Batumi. For the
next four hours we were part of the Career Fair. Prior to the six hour drive
back to Tbilisi; we went to dinner and then started the drive back. We didn’t
get back to Tbilisi until around 1:00am. It was a long day and very productive
and satisfying. It was also great to see
the Black Sea and also enjoy the smells on being near the water.
This is something that I won’t do again – that is,
overall spending twelve hours on a “marsh” traveling out west. Days later my
back still hurt as the “marsh” seats are not all that comfortable. But, I have
been trying to savor any and all Peace Corps events that I didn’t have a chance
to do. If I go out West again, which I am sure I will do, it will be via the
train.
Some friends and I spent a leisurely Sunday morning
at the Rooms Hotel in Tbilisi having their “all you can eat” breakfast.
The food and the company was excellent. First the food (of course) – bacon (and
lots of it); cheese (my favorite – Blue Cheese); omlets and pancakes and all
kinds of baked goods; salads – I could go on and on. Needless to say, we all
enjoyed ourselves. We ate for four hours (of course not non-stop) – we did talk
in-between, but it was awesome. It was a little expensive but well worth it.
And yet, another food event “All you can eat Sushi”
at the Radisson Blu Hotel was a fabulous night. My friend Marianna and I ate
sushi for 2-hours. Of course the beer was so expensive. The cheapest was 11 Gel
and went up to 16 Gel a bottle; so, my bill the beer was more expensive than
the sushi J.
However, it was so wonderful. I could not eat the next day I was still so
filled. They had a chef making up the sushi platters fresh and when your
platter was empty; immediately another platter appeared. We were both in
heaven…..this will be done again and again. I hope they continue this “all you
can eat” promotion; as sushi was very expensive here in Georgia as it is not
readily available or abundant. I seriously could not have afforded the sushi
that I ate J.
Here are some interesting facts that I found reading
the financial papers here in Georgia. To begin, 60% of all food that Georgia
consumes is imported. I think that is a high number; but then, I don’t know
what else to compare it to. In addition,
and this is something that has been very clear to me – that is, bread is one of
the main source of calories in the Georgian diet. Bread accounts for as much as
63% of the individual’s caloric intake. It is, so the report states, about
twice as much as the benchmark value in developed countries. Again, what a high
number; however, it does not surprise me in the least.
Another fact that does not surprise me is that the
Georgian people experience a deficit in essential nutrients. They lack access
to vitamin-rich fruits, as well as meat and fish containing protein, iron and
vitamin. The diet is replaced with excess consumption of fats and sugars. Yes,
I’ve been living the facts as stated; but, I have the ability to supplement
whereas most Georgian people do not. The
surveys and studies that have been done are really interesting to me as I have
been living without benefit of good food. One banner headline states “We
may not be hungry, but we are starving.” They are not hungry as the bread (sometimes
3-loaves of bread at each meal) fills them up. For me, I just cannot eat that
much bread so most nights I go to bed hungry. I will continue to follow these
reports as they are so interesting to me.
I was in Tbilisi for (4) days during May in order to
complete my exit appointments with Peace Corps Staff and also to begin my
medical requirements. The Peace Corps is so complete in making sure that when
we leave country (and/or Peace Corp) they know we are solid and whole (also,
their liability is satisfied so that after the fact the volunteer cannot claim
a problem that they didn’t know about).
Blood work, stool samples, physical examination, eye
and dental examinations. I was poked and prodded for many days. Then, I had
appointments with the Country Director, Training Manager and my Program
Manager. I stayed, of course, at my favorite Envoy Hostel and had lots of BEER J.
One of the sad aspects of renting the flat is that I
won’t be staying at the Hostel any more. I really love this place and I love
the view of the city that it provides. I won’t have that in my new place; but,
I could always go back and visit. I know the staff and owner would welcome me
to come back. That is such a nice feeling.
One more point on my new apartment (also called
“Bina” in Georgian)….I understand that a former member of parliament is living
in the building and as such 24/7 security must be had. So, there is a security
guard outside the building around the clock. He has one of those security
houses and a place inside the building so that he can keep warm (I imagine)
once the weather changes to winter. This is a good thing I am told – but I get
a little squirrely when someone is watching all the time.
In early June my class of Peace Corps Volunteers has
been invited to a BBQ at the home of the US Georgian Ambassador and his wife. I
am looking forward to this event; not only to see how the other half lives here
in Georgia (smiles) – but to all connect with my fellow PCV’s one more time
before we all leave country.
My counter-part teacher invited me to her home for
dinner recently. It was so nice to sit and talk in peace and quiet (something
we cannot do at school). The home of my counter-part was unbelievable. It has
(16) rooms and most of the furniture in the house was of museum quality. I was
overwhelmed seeing her place. It was a terrific evening.
The BIG Storm…..recently Sagarejo had a major storm.
I know this because as I was returning to Sagarejo I noted that the road
leading into the town was like a river. Cars parked along the road had water up
to and covering the tires. Tree branches were all over the place. It seemed
that I had just missed it. Conditions looked terrible and I wondered if I was
going to get a cab up the mountain; however, I did. As we went up the mountain
conditions looked worse than they did as we were coming in Sagarejo and then I
arrived at my home.
When I got out of the cab everyone was outside on
the road; my host family and my neighbors were walking up and down the road and
everyone was crying. There was ice and snow on the ground that covered my shoes
as I walked into the garden (remember this is Mid-May). One of the BIG apple
trees was down and most of the flowers were scattered on the ground. The
overhead grape vine looked wilted and the living room was soaked with water. I
was concerned about my room; but, all was OK.
We all just looked at the destruction – no one
wanted to go back into their houses. The wind must have been very powerful to
knock trees down. I am so glad that I missed it; as most times with wind storms
I think the roof is going to blow off. I did take pictures and I will post.
I will write more about this in June; but, on June 4th
the US Ambassador to Georgia will host a BBQ for my group of Peace Corps
Volunteers who will be leaving service in 2016. I am sure it will be a nice
event; and I will get to see many volunteers that I’ve not seen for a while.
Stayed tuned for more details
As I sit here finishing up the blog I am listening
to the dogs here in Sagarejo. This is one aspect of village life that I won’t
miss. The people here in the village must like to hear their dogs barking as
the barking just goes on and on. The owners are home and allow the dog to make
noise; maybe it is a comfort thing. I don’t know; other than, it is awful. I
can understand the cows and donkey noises; but there are more dogs than live
stock and really no reason for the dogs to bark for hours and hours.
So, as I close my next to the last blog as a Peace
Corps Volunteer; today, here in Georgia – May 26th. Is Independence
Day (see link above). There were parades and concerts and all kinds of stuff
going on across Georgia. It felt like 4th of July in the United
States.
All the best, Catherine Lawrence, G14 – 5/26/16
PeaceCorps Volunteer/Georgia
The
contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of
the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Hello, My Faithful Readers
April 25, 2016
24
Months Served/2 More To Serve
Photographs at the bottom of the Blog.....Hope you Enjoy!
The BIG news is that the Pig has arrived. (Wilbur 3)
– I am not allowed to name him but I do think of him as Wilbur 3. I didn’t see
him arrive, but one day recently I heard him crying out back where the pig
house is. When I went back to investigate I thought he was going to jump out of
his pen and land on me (as I was looking in through the window). During my time here I have watched two pigs
grow; but, thankfully, I have not witness them being shot and slaughtered. Lots
of animals cry here; especially dogs. This will be an aspect of village life
that I won’t miss.
Things are very same-same (but not the
same-old-same-old) here on my mountain. The cycle has started again and I sit
and watch the family spend hours and hours in the garden. The trees have
started to bloom and so have the flowers. I watch before I leave for school the
tulips being closed up and then when I return from school they are open. I have
never noticed that; even last year, I don’t remember watching the tulips. Now,
this may be kind of boring, my faithful readers….but, this is what is
happening. Of course, I am getting ready to leave service, packing and completing
my reports; but the garden is the thing that has always captured me. I will
miss is greatly.
I’ve been here in Georgia and the Peace Corps for a
full two years; however, I must tell you it feels more like decades that it
does years. You know how they say the years go by faster and faster the older
you get; well, that has not been my experience. If the Peace Corps could bottle
this experience and sell it as the Fountain of Youth….I know I would certainly
buy it. Dealing with daily living here in-country (although I do complain, I
know)…however, you really can’t focus on the hardships; as there is just too
much else to deal with.
I am writing and listening to a car alarm. I cannot
believe it. Its 9:22pm and I am looking out the window to see what car (there
is only one here on my mountain) is screaming with a car alarm. I guess one of
the neighbors has company as I don’t recognize the car. It was very strange to
hear that sound as I’ve not heard a car alarm here in Sagarejo.
One of the teachers came into the teachers’ room
with a can of opened beer. We all looked at her and waited for why she had beer
at 10am in the morning. It seems that the teacher took the beer away from a
student (8th grade student) during class time. I’ve seen this
before; both in the classroom and on buses and marshes. I don’t understand that
Children drinking beer right out in the open and no one seem to think anything
of it. I am so glad this teacher did take the beer away; but, I don’t think the
practice will stop. Children drink at family gatherings (supras) and in fact it
is encouraged.
This practice goes hand-in-hand with children
driving the car. I’ve seen many children on the lap of the driver (usually a
man) as they speed down the road. Sometimes the children are very young and/or
I’ve seen young adults driving a car without benefit of an adult. I remember a
half century ago this practice being done where I grew up. At that time I
didn’t think anything of it; but now, heavens.
The way Georgians drive is horrible and to have children in the car; let
alone helping drive it, is very upsetting.
Easter is coming here in Georgia. It is Sunday, May
1st and the good news is that we have five days off from school.
Yipeeeeee….I will write more about this as I will be spending a long weekend in
Tbilisi and visiting with friends who have comfortable sofas J.
I am looking forward to eating (real food); having showers and comfortable
chairs. Easter in Georgia is a really big deal.
Over the next 10 weeks or so, the Peace Corps will
send an email every Tuesday to help us transition from service here in Peace
Corps Georgia back into real life. They will give us resources (not sure
exactly what kind) and also what is available to us as former Peace Corps
Volunteers. This is a really good thing; so, I am looking forward to the
information.
I have finally grown in the classroom; and that
means, that I do longer get myself angry or upset (as much) when the students continually
talk on their phones, talk to each other during class time or punch/hit each
other during class. This has been the behavior of the students for the entire
24 months that I have been here. I am asked to read text to the students so
they can hear English from a native speaker; however, most times I have to talk
over the students or stop and wait for them to stop talking. What I now do is
just keep reading while they continue talking or fighting or they are on their
phones, or whatever. It is really very bazaar; but, these kids have no interest
in what I am doing or what their regular teacher is doing for that matter.
Most, not all, come to school doing what they have been trained to do since 1st
grade; and that is play. They have not been taught that school is different
than a school yard, playground or a circus for that matter. They run screaming
through the halls as every 45 minutes when classes change they have recess.
When class starts again they arrive late back to the classroom and they are
overheated as they have been running and jumping (on each other); playing tag
or hide-n-go-seek in the hallways. Sometimes kick the bottle is played in the
classroom and hallways. It is a horror, at least to me. I can handle it most
days as I know I am not going to change anything. But there are days that all
of this makes me ill. Overall, I know it is not the fault of the children; it
just makes me angry and then I get sad.
This is an aspect of my service that I will not
miss. I love teaching; and sadly by any stretch of the imagination I have not
been teaching. It is more like crowd control. The book “lord of the flies”
comes to mind as clearly the children are in control. They know that no matter
what their behavior no consequences will fall on them. They may get hollered
at; but, it does not impact or bother them. We all continue to try; but it gets
increasingly more difficult as the week goes on. By Wednesday I am exhausted
(really earlier than that). One of the most astounding things is that the
teachers really don’t see how complicit they are in teaching the children to
behave in such an undisciplined way. They ask me for suggestions to positively
change behaviors; however, once given they make excuses for the children and it
just goes around in a circle. I just don’t offer advice any longer. Even when I
am asked; I just smile and change the subject.
Sometimes I am floored with the inconsideration that
is exhibited by people (in general) and I don’t know why I am surprised that the
Georgian people are inconsiderate also (probably a part of the human condition).
In this land that is constantly referred to as hospitable I have been left
walking on the road home by host family members and extended family members/neighbors.
I felt really bad when these events happened; but, then I realized that I have
nothing to feel bad about. These folks driving past me (sometimes while it was
raining/cold/wind/snow) and waving at me as they drive by should feel
embarrassed. As I walk up the road to the location that they have driven to, I
am astounded at the greeting that I get – welcoming me. I think – why did you
not be generous and offer me a ride? I know it would not do any good to say
anything as I really don’t think they see anything inconsistent with
hospitality and my being left on the road. At the moment, I am writing this at
1:30am as the neighbors are having a party and they have large speakers
screaming music. There is no way I can sleep. The music is rap and I’ve heard
the “blank-blank” word (you know what I mean) been shouted out through these
speakers. It is insulting to have to be
captive to be forced to be a part of this – no choice; where am I going to go
or who to call. These people, if I asked them to lower the music, would look at
me like my head is screwed off.
April 15th, here in Georgia, is known as
the “Day of Love”. Of course in the United States April 15th is
known as “Death Day” – AKA,Tax day – (yes, Virginia – it is all semantics)…..in
any event here is the Story of the “Day Of Love”. In a land far, far away
(known as Georgia) the military men were not allowed to marry. It seems that
the work was so dangerous and the nation didn’t want to have a community of
military widows….so, that is the way it went. Until one day, a priest (and
let’s face it Religion rules this country) said it was a stupid rule. The
military should be allowed to marry. So, on this date – April 15th,
he married the 1st military couple and the rest is history. Now,
military men and women can marry. And they all lived happily ever after…..:-)
Another experience I can share with you was
something that was/is so foreign to me I can hardly believe it happened. In a
nutshell, I was “Catfished!” I had no idea what this word meant prior to my
experience. Basically, it has come about as a result of the internet world. It
is a scam perpetrated via skype and the internet (e-mail). I cannot even say
“Only in America” – as it is happening all over the world. The term comes from a movie of the same name.
It is about Relationships that are built on lies and fabrication of facts that
really, initially, how could anyone prove or disprove. The electronic world
does not adhere to borders….and you can be anyone you want to be.
And so, here
is my story.
I was contacted by a man through one of the dating
sites I had placed a profile on. I was surprised as I thought I had removed all
my on-line profiles as seriously, I had given up on this method of meeting
people. So, when I was contacted I was surprised and pleased as the man (in the
electronic world) was a powerhouse (in my opinion). Whoever I was speaking to mis-represented
him/herself as someone else. A military man, who was high in rank and had a
profession (pilot) that was made-up/not true. He was a widow (with a pre-teen
daughter) and really spun a weave of lies that was so convincing - he/she really had me on the ropes for a
little bit of time. I believe, as there was no way I could dis-prove, some of
his tall tales. He said he was in Kabul and being in a war zone, well – I would
imagine the men and women live under different rules. Our conversation was not
his first “Rodeo” and I was totally duped. There were some inconsistencies in
our dialogue; but then as humans we do believe what we want to believe. As much
as my “trust” meter was going crazy (at times); I wanted to give this a chance
and not kill it (as I usually do romantic relationships) before they have a
chance to walk.
So, it came to a head when we were making plans to
meet. It seems that I would have to request of his commanding officer time off.
I would need to do this claiming to be his spouse (of course, on email). In
addition, I would need to send 1400 pounds (which is $2,000US) to an address in
London that I would get back (as it was totally reimburseable) when I met this
man - (and BTW – once I met him I was
never going to be able let him leave). LOL (Laughing out Loud) – Wow, was I
floored. This person (as I have no idea if it was a man or a woman (maybe an
alien) was totally serious.
I felt like I needed a shower. I felt like I wanted
to throw up. What a scam. Mad at myself (initially) that I walked into this;
but, these folks really know how to push buttons. I am alone but not lonely. I
have a great life – but, I would welcome
a wonderful relationship into my life. Taking a chance; trying to live life being
not so suspicious and jaded. Well, all of this reinforced my way of being
(which is really the saddest aspect of all this).
What can I say; I was taken in – but, not for long.
I did see the person behind the curtain and came through unscathed. Sad and
disappointed; but I will live. I write this very soon as all this ended so I am
sure that more will come to light as time goes forward and I can reflect
further.
Onto other things….the grandmother is so deaf. She
puts the television on at such a high level and then she goes into the garden.
Honestly, you can hear the television while you are at the end of the road. I
turn the TV down; and she turns it up. The noise comes through the floorboards
in to the second floor. The windows
vibrate with the level of sound….even my headphones cannot deaden the noise.
The heat is finally off in the school. I was
surprised that the heat remained on until mid-April. I know last year the heat
went off on April 1st. The weather has not been that cold; but the
rain is the thing. It is sometimes so cold and damp that I still need to use my
space heater just to take the chill off the room. So, I guess winter is really
over (smiles)….maybe.
One more thing about the schools….the children sleep
in class. I wake them up and they look at me and then put their head back down.
Seriously, they have no qualms about disobeying adults. The children just do
whatever it is they want. I know, from my host family, that everyone goes to
bed very late. The children especially sometimes don’t get to bed until after midnight
or later; so, no wonder they are tired in class. Most times they come home from
school and take a nap – so that allows them to stay up late and the circle
continues. The sleeping in class bothers me terribly. What is more upsetting is
that the teachers don’t think there is anything wrong with this. They brush it
off as the children are tired; and it is OK to sleep during the lesson. There
is just so much I don’t understand and the longer I am here the more I don’t
understand. Teaching to folks sleeping is so unbelievable I cannot get my head
around it. It is like talking to empty chairs.
Over the weekend of April 23rd; I went to
a town (out West in Georgia) called Dzevrie. I’ve been to this location last
summer for a summer camp; so, the locale was familiar. We went (other Peace
Corps Volunteers and myself) to play baseball with students from the local
school. It was a real hoot!
We started by arriving Friday and the Director of
the school organized a “Supra” for us. This was my first “Supra” with PCV’s;
so, this was also a new experience. We ate (of course Georgian Food) and drank
the local wine. The Director’s children (a boy and girl, ages 10 and 9) danced
the traditional Georgian dances for us and even had some of us up dancing with
them. It was a tremendous good time. The
next day we assembled on the ball field to play ball. We were scheduled for 4
innings; which I thought was too little; however, it took us over 2-hours to
play 4-innings and we were all exhausted. The children were GREAT; although, they
lost to the winning Peace Corps Volunteers. I did go to bat twice and hit the
ball each time. I was not fast enough to run to 1st base; but, I was
thrilled to even have hit (hard ball) the ball. The weather was spotless, not a
cloud in the sky and you could see the mountains in the distance (with snow on
the tops) as we were guarding the bases and fields on defense.
After the game we all started for various places. I
came back to Tbilisi; other PCV’s went to Batumi and others went various other
towns. However, first we were treated to a lunch on Georgian food. It was
really lovely.
I’ve attached a picture of the teams after the game.
A couple of final thoughts: My host father has
stopped smoking. This is a big deal and initially I didn’t understand why. Men
here in Georgia smoke a lot. It is rare that I see a man without a cigarette in
his mouth. However, it seems that cigarettes have increased in price. I don’t
know how much; but apparently enough so that people are being forced to stop
smoking. Well, this is really a good thing. I hope that it continues as I know
how hard it is to stop smoking.
And finally, so many children in my school are
walking around with their arms in slings, hands are bandaged, on crutches, legs
in cast, head bandages….I don’t know what happened; or maybe nothing more than
the usual rough-housing the kids do both in and out of school. However, it just
seemed like so many children were hurt in some way.
So, here I am at the end of another blog. Thank you
for sharing this crazy ride with me. The G-16’s have arrived in-country. These
are the folks that will replace my group, the G-14’s (meaning – the 14th
group to service in the Republic of Georgia).
All
the best, Catherine Lawrence, G14
Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia - April 25, 2016
The
contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of
the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Hello, My Faithful Readers
March 24, 2016
23
Months Served/3 Months Remaining
See a collection of photographs below - throughout my time here in Georgia!
Before
I begin the adventures of my life happenings here in Eastern Europe; I wanted to
share with you information about a GREAT competition entitled: WriteOn!
WriteOn is an international creative writing competition for
high school kids, university students and English speaking professionals in
over 15 different Peace Corps countries. It's a fun contest that gives kids a
chance to use their creative brains to write stories in English.
In addition to the competition, WriteOn develops and distributes
lesson plans focused on writing and creative thought. Our goal is to develop
Georgian students' creativity, improve their English abilities and encourage
more creative and critical thinking based lessons in Georgian schools.
In Georgia, we invite the national winners (1st, 2nd and 3rd
place) to a creative writing workshop where they get to meet their peers from
all over the country, learn about ways to improve and explore their creative
skills and even meet a Georgian author.
By donating to this grant, you help us fund this great opportunity for Georgian students and you also contribute to a worldwide need for more creative minds!
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The International Write On! Competition engages students,
teachers, and professionals from around Georgia and the world in one of Peace
Corps most successful inte...
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Preview by Yahoo
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My “Official COS – Close of Service” date is June
30, 2016. So, at this point in time I have entered the “last 100 days” phase of my service. The Peace Corps provides
what they call a COS Conference. It was held at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in
Tbilisi and it was a wonderful couple of days (3-night). Provided was lots and lots of food,
comfortable beds and wonderful linens and pillows; a pool and fitness center
and of course real bathrooms. Showers, showers, showers….we got rid of the “sticks”
in our hair (HA). I stayed in Tbilisi an extra night to meet a friend for
dinner and it was all wonderful.
There was a funny moment during dinner one evening.
I pushed my chair back from the table to go back to the buffet table and the
2-back legs of my chair buckled underneath the chair. I fell back (felt like
slow motion) onto the carpet. Lucky I didn’t get hurt; however, after I figured
out what had just happened I could not stop laughing and could not get off the
floor. Of course the hotel management and Peace Corps staff ran over to see if
I was ok (and I was). Not long after my tumble, someone else had a chair break
in the dining room. I have written about the condition of the furniture in
other blogs. Most tables are not steady or strong and chairs usually sink in
the middle (from use). Georgians don’t seem to replace furniture; it just
continues to get used until it just disintegrates.
Coming back to site was difficult. As much as we all
enjoy going into civilization for a couple of days; going back to cold mash
potatoes mashed in water and beans as well as no showers and chamber pots for
toilets – well, needless to say I for one need to get numb again. I yearn for
the coming time where all the earmarks of civilization will be part of my daily
life. I also cannot wait not to have to adhere to all the rules we are subject
to also.
The Conference provided all the information we will
need to close our service and leave Georgia; however, even though the end is
near – we were informed that it is still “not too late” to screw it up (if you
know what I mean). The Security Office advised us that during these last
3-months people get lazy and lots of unfortunate stuff happens…so, even though
we are almost at the finish line we still need to be vigilant living and
working here in Georgia.
Lots of time was also spent on “what comes next as
we approach the cliff.” That is, as difficult as life has been we have been in
a “bubble” so to speak with the Peace Corps and the US Government having our
back. Once we leave service it becomes a whole new ball game. Most of the
conversation was focused to the 20-somethings that will leave Peace Corps and
go and find jobs. We had a panel of folks from the CDC; USAID, the US Embassy
and State Department as well as a representative from a NGO here in Tbilisi. It
was enjoyable. All members of the panel were former Peace Corps Volunteers so
they could share not only their time in service; but, also what it felt like to
transition back into the real world.
The icing on the cake for me was to spend the last
night of the conference at the recently re-opened Opera House in Tbilisi. The building is indeed beautiful. The program
was “Swan Lake.” The costumes, music and dancing was tremendous and it was a
very inexpensive undertaking. The Opera House was completely sold out and for
the most part everyone was quiet to watch and hear the performance. I hope to
attend many events in this building.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We had a couple of holidays in March. The first was
on March 3rd. It is Mother’s Day here in Georgia and March 8th
which is International Women’s Day here in Georgia. I’ve listed the links in
case you want to learn more. One of the GREAT aspects about these holidays was
the fact that the School were closed along with everything else in Georgia….It
was a nice treat.
Also in March we had a practice evacuation. This
usually happens in October; however, we had so many changes within the ranks of
the Peace Corps Staff this had to be postponed until March. Each section of the
country has a different gathering spot in the event of a political or natural
disaster that would make it necessary to leave the country (evacuate). My
location is to go to Telavi which is north of where I live. It is such an
ordeal to get to Telavi; so I decided to go the day before and spend the nite
with another Peace Corps Volunteer. I am so glad that I did.
The friend I stayed with and I had a nice lunch and
then walked around Telavi for a number of hours. I got to see a lot of the city
and then we ended up at a bar for a beer. It was a great time to catch up and
talk and also to meet other folks who live in Telavi. In the event of an actual
evacuation of course we would need our “go bag” – so during the meeting we
spoke of what we needed to do and where to gather in the city. The hotel is the
focal point so we all now know what to do. Hopefully, especially since I have
so little time left, I won’t have to do what we prepared for.
Peace Corps Established on March 1st,
1961. The below link will give you more information…..55 Year Anniversary!
Another interesting adventure I had during March was
to go to the US Embassy. (link below if you want to check it out).
It took me four hours to get to the embassy even
though it is in Tbilisi. What an ordeal. It normally takes me two hours from my
home in Sagarejo; however the embassy to so far out of the city it took me
another two hours (by marsh and bus) to get there. I stood in line outside
waiting for the doors to open for my 2pm appointment. Literally I spent a full 30minutes going through
security and finally into the room that I needed to do business in. The doors
were so heavy that I could barely open it by myself. One of the security people
came to help me.
When you are called to the teller window the clerk
(behind reinforced glass) speaks via an intercom. In addition to myself everyone
else in the room can hear our conversation. I was not happy about that. I don’t
want to go into my business; but, needless to say it could have all been
avoided if the forms that I needed notarized had listed clearer information.
Oh, well. That is the way it goes.
Macaroni is what Georgian’s call Pasta. I tried to
buy a colander; but nobody could understand what I was talking out. I’ve seen,
in my host family, that macaroni is cooked in a frying pan. They use very
little water to cook the macaroni; so, I imagine that is why they have no need
for a colander. However, the stores do sell them; but, the sales women didn’t
know what they were used for.
I have been in many lessons with students, in just
about all the grades. And I have noticed that when a student does not
understand a word or phrase they don’t say anything. Students just hear the
word as a word; but, it has no meaning for them. When I ask; for example:
“paperbacks” – what does it mean? The children have no response. I keep
instilling in them that asking questions will help them prepare for life. It
will also give them a richer educational experience. We had a great
conversation about “paperbacks” vs “hardbacks” and what the differences were. I
realize that it does take some time to get people to ask questions. I know for
myself that sometimes I am afraid to ask for fear of looking stupid; but, I
keep trying to show students the benefits.
I finish my tutoring sessions in the Georgian
language this month and I received my final language score – which was “Novice
High.” I missed the mark by one grade as it would have been great to finish
“Intermediate Low” which is one grade above where I ended up. Oh well; I tried
my best. I do plan to continue studying the language here in Georgia; but, I
will do it in a more relaxed atmosphere. For example; there are many language
conversation groups that gather weekly so I plan to connect. I do feel that I
understand way more than I can speak; and, seriously, I can get around – so I
am not worried. Many, many folks in Tbilisi speak English so that helps also.
I noticed something about the Georgian lettering
system that maybe I should have recognized earlier…that is, unlike English
where words can be written in script (where the letters connect to one
another). The Georgian letters are printed individually and they do not connect
with one another. It has taken me all this time to realize that….I just found
it interesting.
It has been so cold here….we had snow and ice. The
heat is still on and will be until April 1st; at that time, the heat
goes off. Last year I remember being colder in April and May than I was most of
the winter and I believe it is because there is no heat. The cold comes right
through the walls as there is no insulation. The weather is just bone chilling
cold. In addition, we get so much rain during April and May.
I will leave you on an “up” note; and that is…..drum
roll please. Sagarejo now has a new restaurant and they sell Schwarma….(my
life’s blood). I cannot begin to tell you what a difference this has made in my
life. A couple of times a week I can get “real food” and it makes me feel so
good. I am always amazed at how good I
feel when I am well fed. The problem being that I don’t think the restaurant
will last very long. The prices are high (my opinion) for my village. The
Schwarma cost 6GEL; and that is high. Some families can feed the entire family
for that amount; so for one sandwich to cost that – well, I don’t think (long
term) many people will be able to sustain that. Of course, I will use it for as
long as it lasts. I only have 3-months left so many I can wait it out….we shall
see. It does make such a difference in my thinking that I know I can get food
once in a while that I look forward to……yippee!!!!!
This weekend is Easter Weekend (in the United
States). The Georgian Easter does not happen until the end of April/beginning
of May – so I don’t have any time off. However, during the Georgian Easter we
have almost an entire week off. Of course, I will fill you in on Easter
happenings during the next blog.
I will sign off for now and so appreciate your
spending your time with me on the “”Magical Mystery Tour” – sometimes I think
of my service this way. The final 100 days will bring lots of choices and
decisions and I will share with you as I move forward. I really love living
outside of the United States; but this is not a surprise to you. One of my life
dreams was to be an ex-pat; and the Peace Corps helped me make the transition
into my next step. I will talk more about this in the remaining blogs; but, I
am not returning to the United States in July (when my service concludes). I
plan to stay here in Georgia for a little while (not sure what that correlates
to in real time).
I am excited about all this as I really don’t know,
seriously, what my choices will be. Only that, no matter what – it will be FUN!
Best,
Catherine Lawrence, G14
Peace Corps Volunteer/Georgia – March 24, 2016
The
contents of this blog are mine personally and do not reflect any position of
the U.S. Government or the Peace Corps.
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